Recipient of the Maryland/Potomac Chapter ASLA Award
In June 2010, the Rosalie Island Potomac River Waterfront Community Park opened to the public. The park consists of a four-acre park on Rosalie Island adjacent to the Potomac River, and a 23,000 square-foot elevated pedestrian bridge spanning Interstate-95. Overlooks at each end of the bridge provide dramatic views of the Potomac River and Alexandria, Virginia.
While working at Mahan Rykiel Associates on this project’s design team, I assisted in designing a park on Rosalie Island, an overlook at each end of the elevated pedestrian bridge, paving patterns for the project, and the green roof system.
I was the lead designer for the planting design of the elevated pedestrian bridge, which was inspired by the natural serpentine forms of the adjacent Potomac River and the surrounding Chesapeake Bay landscape.
View of the landscaped pedestrian bridge
Serpentine pathways and masses of trees, perennials, and grasses wind through the pedestrian bridge.
Ornamental grasses and hardy perennials
South overlook with sitting boulders, eagle watch scopes, and a view of the Potomac River
North overlook with interpretive panels, describing the natural and cultural history of the site.
View from Rosalie Island Park to the Potomac River and Woodrow Wilson Bridge
Fall blooming perennials and grasses border the main pedestrian pathway.
The pedestrian park is well used as a destination along the Woodrow Wilson Memorial Trail.